Edo State Government Begins Process to Create Special Court for Cultism and Kidnapping Cases

The Edo State Government has taken a major step toward strengthening the fight against cultism and kidnapping with a request for the establishment of a special court dedicated to handling related criminal cases.

The request was contained in a letter dated June 19, 2026, sent to the Chief Judge of Edo State by the Secretary to the State Government, Umar Musa Ikhilor, Esq., on behalf of Governor Monday Okpebholo.

In the letter addressed to the Chief Judge’s Chambers of the Edo State High Court of Justice, Sapele Road, Benin City, the state government formally requested the constitution of a Special Court for the “expeditious hearing and determination” of cases involving cultism and kidnapping in the state.

The government said the move is part of its commitment to tackling violent crimes and improving the administration of criminal justice in Edo State.

Edo Government Requests Special Judges for New Court

As part of the request, Governor Monday Okpebholo recommended the nomination of three judges, or any number the Chief Judge considers appropriate, to form the proposed Special Court.

The aim is to ensure that cases involving cult-related activities and kidnapping are treated with urgency, reducing delays in the justice process and ensuring that suspects who are found guilty face the law.

The government believes that a specialised judicial approach will strengthen ongoing security efforts and provide a faster legal response to criminal activities affecting residents.

Why Edo Is Creating a Special Court for Cultism and Kidnapping

The decision comes amid growing concerns over the impact of cult-related violence and kidnapping incidents across parts of Edo State.

Security challenges linked to kidnapping, gang activities, and cult clashes have remained a major concern for residents and authorities, leading the government to introduce stronger measures to improve public safety.

The administration of Governor Okpebholo has repeatedly stated its commitment to reducing criminal activities in the state, with security meetings, enforcement operations, and increased collaboration with security agencies forming part of the wider strategy.

Previous Incidents and Security Concerns 

The decision to establish a Special Court for kidnapping and cultism cases comes amid growing concerns over insecurity and violent crimes in Edo State, with recent incidents increasing pressure for faster justice delivery.

One of the incidents that attracted widespread attention was the abduction of a woman at the popular Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City.

The victim was reportedly kidnapped in broad daylight on a Sunday afternoon while she was at the market with her husband and children after church service. The incident happened in the presence of traders, customers, and other residents, causing panic and outrage among members of the public.

Videos and eyewitness accounts of the incident circulated widely, with many residents expressing concern over the safety of public places and calling for stronger action against criminal activities in the state.

Following investigations into the abduction, the Edo State Police Command later arrested suspects allegedly linked to the kidnapping operation. The suspects were paraded alongside other criminal suspects during a police exercise attended by Governor Monday Okpebholo.

During the event, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling kidnapping, cultism, and other violent crimes across Edo State.

Governor Okpebholo stated that criminal elements should not mistake his calm approach for weakness, assuring residents that the government would continue to support security agencies in their efforts to restore peace and protect lives and property.

Strengthening Criminal Justice in Edo State

The proposed Special Court is expected to complement the efforts of security agencies by providing a dedicated legal channel for handling cultism and kidnapping cases.

Government officials believe that faster trials could serve as a deterrent to criminal groups while improving public confidence in the justice system.

Rather than allowing cases to face prolonged delays, the specialised court is expected to focus on quicker hearings and proper determination of cases based on evidence presented before the court.

Governor Okpebholo’s Security Agenda

Since assuming office, Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration has continued to emphasise security as a major priority, with commitments to protect residents, support security agencies, and create a safer environment for economic activities.

The proposed court represents another step in the state government’s broader approach of combining security operations with legal reforms to address crime.

What the Special Court Could Mean for Edo Residents

If approved and established, the Special Court could change how kidnapping and cultism cases are handled in Edo State.

Residents and stakeholders expect the initiative to improve accountability, speed up justice delivery, and strengthen efforts to tackle criminal activities across the state.

The Edo State Government is now awaiting the consideration of the Chief Judge as it moves forward with the plan to establish the court.